Saint-Quentin (SQBB) is showing strong resilience, with five wins in their last eight matches, bringing them level with BCM Gravelines in the standings. Despite having a negative point average (-4), their recent performance, particularly their decisive victory, has impressed. Even after their Eurocup triumph, Frédéric Fauthoux’s team struggled, which is uncharacteristic, especially at Ekinox.
The 12-28 score in the third quarter, which propelled Picard to a 16-point lead (48-64), proved to be a turning point. The strong performances of Eddie Ekiyor (23 points on 11/12 shooting) and Cat Barber (22 points on 4/6 shooting and 8/10 free throws) were instrumental in this success.
“The change is our training quality,” analyzed Giovan Oniangue for L’Aisne Nouvelle. “A big hat tip to Pedro (NDLR: Pedro Nuno Monteiro, the third coach of the season after Philippe Da Silva and Eric Bartecheky). He trusted us, we trusted him. He knew how to put us in the right direction. Today, everyone is moving in the same direction. This victory is beautiful, but it doesn’t guarantee anything. There are still two games left.”
Indeed, SQBB has two crucial upcoming matches: a home game against Le Mans and an away game against Nancy. However, BCM’s schedule appears even more challenging, with a trip to Nanterre and a home game against Bourg. Saint-Quentin must win at least one more game to avoid the precarious play-in round with Elite 2 teams.
“I’m happy, but tonight, we’ve just given ourselves the right to keep believing in our destiny, nothing more,” commented Nuno Monteiro. “I’m calling everyone next Saturday to come and push us. We want to stay in Betclic Élite, for the people, for the club, for everyone. We will achieve this thanks to you.”
